How can I tell if new shoots will be leaves or flowers?

Question

In 4 years, I’ve only gotten one flower and one red/green flower shape (no seeds).

Answer 1

It's hard to say without knowing what kind of plant. Some are easier than others to tell whether flower buds or leaves during early formation.

Start with this article: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/plant-bud-information.htm

In order to encourage flower formation, don't use a high nitrogen fertilizer, which stimulates vegetative growth, sometimes at the expense of reduced flower formation.